Arsenal icon Paul Merson explains why ‘world-class’ Rodri can never play for England
Arsenal icon Paul Merson has explained why Manchester City midfielder Rodri can never play for England. According to the pundit, The Three Lions' conservative approach would limit the Spain international's impact on the game.
Rodri was brilliant at Euro 2024 with his national team and played a key role in helping them win the tournament. Spain defeated England 2-1 in the final to clinch the trophy. They had to do so without the defensive midfielder's presence in the second half after he was subbed off at the break due to injury.
Speaking about why Rodri wouldn't fit into the England team, Merson told the Football's Greatest YouTube channel:
"I would say (Rodri) is my player of the tournament. I don't think Spain win it without Rodri. But Rodri can never play for us (England). We close up the game too much."
"He's world-class, and people use that word loosely. World-class means you get into every single football team in the world. So every team in the world, you would get into your position, and Rodri does (that)," he added.
During Euro 2024, Rodri made six appearances for his country, bagging a goal and no assists. The Manchester City midfielder was also awarded the Player of the Tournament, while teammate Lamine Yamal was given the Young Player of the Tournament prize.
After winning the Premier League with Manchester City earlier in the season, Rodri is among the contenders to win this year's Ballon d'Or.
Jack Wilshere places Arsenal star beside Rodri as the best midfielder in the Premier League
Former Arsenal star Jack Wilshere believes Declan Rice and Rodri are the best midfielders in the Premier League. Although the Gunners star was brilliant in the club season, he had an underwhelming campaign for England at Euro 2024.
With the north London outfit, Rice made 38 Premier League appearances, bagging seven goals and nine assists after starting in a deep midfield role.
Speaking about the duo, Wilshere wrote in The Sun (via Just Arsenal):
"Rodri has got it all. He can do the possession stuff but he can also leave his foot in, be nasty, be horrible, win the ball."
"Rice is a little younger than him and producing very consistent performances. They are at the top of the Premier League," he added.
Rice came to the Emirates Stadium in the summer of 2023 reportedly for £105 million, while Rodri joined Manchester City in 2019 reportedly on a £62.5 million deal.